Winnipeg Jets Set New Franchise Milestones with 4-2 Victory Over Vancouver Canucks in Season Closer

Thursday, April 18th, 2024

In the last regular-season match for Winnipeg, Nikita Chibrikov made a memorable NHL debut by netting the decisive goal. Cole Perfetti also stood out by scoring twice, helping the Jets overcome the Vancouver Canucks with a score of 4-2.

Following his elevation from the Manitoba Moose on the same day, Chibrikov shared his surreal experience.

The triumph brought Winnipeg multiple achievements. They concluded the season having allowed the minimum number of goals across the league, thus clinching the William M. Jennings Trophy for their first time. Moreover, they matched their longest winning streak at eight games, equating their franchise record. The Jets also replicated their record of 52 wins, a high previously reached during the 2017-18 season.

By finishing second in the Western Conference, the Jets ensured they would enjoy home-ice advantage through the first three playoff rounds. Another goal by Gabe Vilardi and 18 saves from Laurent Brossoit, securing his 15th win, were key contributions to the victory.

For the Canucks, Conor Garland was pivotal with a goal and an assist, and Elias Lindholm scored through a power play. Goalkeeper Thatcher Demko stopped 22 shots, making his second start in a row following a knee injury.

With an eye toward the playoffs, both squads opted to rest several of their top players. The Jets were without Mark Scheifele, Kyle Connor, Josh Morrissey, and Connor Hellebuyck, whereas the Canucks did not play J.T. Miller and Brock Boeser.

Despite the defeat, Vancouver's coach Rick Tocchet looked ahead with optimism, focusing on the upcoming playoffs starting Sunday.

The playoffs will open with the Canucks hosting the Nashville Predators and the Jets facing off against the Colorado Avalanche in their first-round series.

Winnipeg Jets vs Vancouver Canucks Game Stats

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